The Tiny house Blog

What Is Considered a Small House?

By
Jason Francis
Designed and built over 100 custom tiny homes, lived on a sailboat for 9 months, and loves to live life to the fullest with his wife and their 4 kids.
Updated on:
March 15, 2024
what is considered a small house

Image Source: Canva

Just like Goldilocks in her quest for the perfect porridge, you might be on a journey to find the perfect sized house. 'Small' can be a tricky term to define, especially when it pertains to houses. So, what exactly makes a house 'small'? 

Is it the square footage, the number of rooms, or perhaps the design layout? While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, let's take a look at what a small house entails. After all, knowledge is key to making an informed decision. So, shall we proceed?

What is a "Small House"?

So, you might be wondering, what exactly qualifies as a 'small house'? Well, in the U.S., a small house is typically considered to be under 2,500 square feet. But remember, this is a relative term. What's small for a family of five may be spacious for a single individual.

A small house isn't just about size, it's also about functionality and layout. These homes often make efficient use of space with a thoughtful floor plan. It's not just about cramming everything into a tiny area, it's about creating a home that feels comfortable and welcoming, despite its smaller footprint.

And don't forget, smaller doesn't mean inferior. There are plenty of benefits to living in a small house. They're generally less expensive, easier to maintain, and can be just as comfortable as their larger counterparts. So, if you've been thinking about downsizing or are just starting out and looking for your first home, don't overlook the charm and potential of a small house. It might be just what you're looking for.

Different Sizes of Smaller Homes

In smaller homes, grasping the various sizes available can assist you in selecting a space that best suits your lifestyle and needs. So, what are the different sizes of smaller homes? Well, you've got micro homes that are typically under 400 square feet, ideal for a single individual. Compact homes and mini homes range from 400 to 800 square feet, a perfect match for a couple or a small family.

Tiny homes, a popular trend, sit between 100 and 400 square feet. These are ideal if you're an extreme minimalist or if you crave the freedom of mobility, as many tiny homes are situated. Small homes, however, are typically under 2500 square feet. They provide a balance of compact living and comfort, suitable for larger families.

Is Your Small House Too Small For You?

Feeling a bit cramped in your current small house? It's natural to question whether your cozy abode is becoming too small for comfort. The key to determining if your home is too small lies in understanding your personal needs and lifestyle.

To begin with, consider your daily activities. If you're constantly bumping into furniture, struggling to find storage spaces, or feeling overwhelmed by clutter, it's a sign your space might be restrictive. Are you able to entertain guests comfortably? Can you pursue your hobbies without any hindrance? If the answer is 'no', you may have outgrown your home.

Also, think about your future plans. Is your family expanding? Are you planning to work from home? These factors could necessitate additional space.

Nevertheless, before you decide to upgrade, remember the benefits of small homes: lower maintenance, reduced costs, and the potential for a cozier and simpler lifestyle. Sometimes, a bit of reorganization and decluttering can make a world of difference.

Image Source: Canva

Small House and a Tiny House: What's the Difference?

While you might be wondering whether your small house is too small, it's also worth exploring the key differences between a small house and a tiny house, as this could offer alternative solutions for your living space needs.

A small house, generally under 2500 square feet, often provides ample room for a family, boasting multiple bedrooms and common areas. Conversely, a tiny house, typically under 400 square feet, is designed for efficiency and simplicity, often consisting of just one or two rooms that multi-task.

The biggest difference between the two is the lifestyle they accommodate. A small house offers more traditional living, with spaces for privacy, hobbies, and even hosting guests. In contrast, a tiny house is all about minimalism and sustainability, perfect for those who prefer a simpler, more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Advantages of Small Homes

Opting to reside in a compact dwelling can offer a variety of benefits, from financial savings to a simpler, eco-friendly lifestyle. You'll likely find your wallet thanking you, as smaller homes typically come with lower mortgage payments, reduced utility bills, and less maintenance costs.

Living small also encourages a minimalist lifestyle, helping you rid of clutter and focus on what's truly significant. This could be a revitalizing change if you're feeling overwhelmed by the modern world's materialistic tendencies.

Additionally, compact homes often have less impact on the environment. Their reduced size means less energy is needed for heating and cooling, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.

Moreover, a smaller home can lead to a tighter-knit family. With less space, you're often in close proximity to each other, promoting communication and stronger bonds.

Furthermore, with less space to clean and maintain, you'll have more time for hobbies, relaxation, or quality time with loved ones.

To summarize, choosing a small home can lead to significant benefits. Financial savings, an eco-friendly lifestyle, and more time for what truly matters are just a few advantages you could enjoy.

Conclusion

So, is a small house right for you? That's for you to decide. Remember, it's not just about square footage, but how efficiently it's used. With a well-designed layout, even the smallest homes can feel spacious and comfortable. Consider the benefits like lower costs, less maintenance, and the potential for a simpler lifestyle. Ultimately, choosing a small house could be a big step towards living more sustainably and focusing on what truly matters in life.

Did you enjoy this post and find value in it? Share it with your friends with the links below!

Need more info? Get

By submitting your email, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms

Subscribe to get the latest news

This is a new way to communicate faster than any communication platforms

Thank you!
Your submission has been received! Check your inbox for an email from info@tinyhouse.com with more info!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Please try again or email us at support@tinyhouse.com. Thanks!
Want all the latest tiny house inspo and news?

Get free resources, updates, tips & tricks, and special offers by joining the Tiny House Plan Newsletter.

No items found.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers — straight from the author — for the most common questions about this article.

Don't see your question here? Contact us!
No items found.

Join The Tiny House Community

Occasionally: Community Events, DIY Tips and Tricks, Tiny House Guides
Never: Junk or Spam and we don't sell or misuse your email.
Welcome to the fam! We're excited to have you join the community.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form. Please try again or use the form below.